By Caroline Christian- Second Year Graduate Student
There is a lot of misinformation and misunderstanding about eating disorders in our society, which can make it difficult to get accurate information about what eating disorders are, and what they look like. Stigma, stereotypes, and poor communication from eating disorder specialists have led to a lack of awareness of the reality of eating disorders. Getting educated about eating disorders can help one learn how to best support a loved one with an eating disorder, help individuals stay motivated in recovery, or help with speaking out against institutions and policies that are harmful for individuals with eating disorders. Here I provide and discuss some statistics and facts about eating disorders based on empirical research, both in the United States broadly, and in my home state of Kentucky. Eating disorders (and disordered eating) are prevalent.
Eating disorders are (increasingly) prevalent in adolescents.
Eating disorders are chronic.
Eating disorders frequently co-occur with other mental and physical health problems.
Eating disorders are difficult to treat.
Eating disorders are underfunded.
Eating disorders are a silent epidemic in Kentucky crucially in need of resources.
These statistics and facts reflect the rather bleak current state of eating disorders. But there is hope! If you are feeling helpless or pessimistic about eating disorders, there are things you can do to help change enact positive change!
5 Comments
1/26/2022 01:25:35 am
I'm glad you explained that youth often don’t perceive eating disorders as problematic and unhealthy that's why it's hard to detect. My friend is looking at the possibility that she may have an eating disorder. I think it's best to seek assistance from an eating disorder treatment center near her place for early identification and tailored treatment.
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4/9/2022 01:50:48 am
This post is very easy to read and understand without leaving any details out. Great work! Thanks for sharing this valuable and helpful article.
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6/23/2022 03:31:00 am
Thank you for sharing this informative article about disordered eating. I hope there are a lot of consumers who could read this and be guided accordingly.
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4/27/2023 04:47:01 pm
It really helped when you described that eating disorders are hard to detect. I have a cousin who's younger than my sister and me, and last month, we noticed that she didn't eat all day long. We've been paying attention to our cousin since then, and we're worried about her well-being, so we'll speak with her mom right away. Thanks for the insight on eating disorders and their treatments.
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